How sweet to return to this sacred space after a short hiatus, wishing all readers a glowing Autumn from the glorious mountains of California!

Tomorrow is Halloween, but there are too many real life horror stories without a need to manufacture another one. As twilight paints an orange burning canvas across the sky setting off my garden avocado, fig and apple trees forming a canopy as if joining hands in solidarity with their outstretched branches, a near-death story raised its tale.

Through the seasons of life, cancer is striking more people at younger ages. “It’s not genetic”, was the relief pronouncement of genetic testing results, which begs the enquiry about environmental and food factors behind 70% of cancer causes in humans. Yet there is hope, illustrated in the attached poem, Avocado Song, written under the discomfort of growing tumors like a brown spotted avocado tree restored to ceaseless praise soaring on eagle’s wings. The triumph of spirit over flesh is a testament to the greater spirit within than that in the world (1 John 4:4).

Mountain living is incredibly blessed with a verdant musical sanctuary themed with grateful birds choruses at dawn, joined by humans mimicking the owl’s hooting under moonlit shadows. Nature’s pharmacy ever so pure and free, in their gentle rustling leaves whisper echoes of mercy, grace, and love. Through seasons of joy and human sorrow, trees bear witness to God’s universal providence while producing fruits in cyclical rotation. Yet the ancient tree does fall sick, and recovers under its Maker’s care. A friend in agricultural science related an interesting fact of being engaged to do human genome research at Caltech because there are similarities between plants and humans. Drawing a parallel between people and plants, may you enjoy “Avocado Song” finding peace in God’s presence through dark and stormy days, and with patient endurance break forth into joy as the DaySpring arises in your hearts!

AVOCADO SONG
(sung to the tune of Let All Things Now Living)

Marvelous brilliant nature
Of trees, flowers, pollinators
Song birds resonating
Ancient notes of earth

Bees like timekeepers
Monarchs fluttering
Deer, cats, bears, eagles
Borderless at play

All but a scrawny tree
Struggling in bendy wind
Lost identity was
Not lost to it’s Maker

Sun-kissed and dewy
Rooted drinking deeply
Sustained, grown, awakened
Brought forth Avocados

Teakettle whistling
Bids people and pets
Repose in nature’s bounty
Munching avocado toast

Resembling God’s creation
We join hearts and hands
Accepting, nurturing
In loving embrace

‘Til you and I raise one
United Benediction
Branch outward, Reach upward
To the march of Harmony

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Marvels in nature brought forth respectful awe as I witness trees on the mountain yielding cyclical bounties by rotation, teaching sustainability lessons that harmonious human friendships are best maintained through reciprocal rotation, like creation’s ecosystem of giving and receiving. Especially poignant was the ecstatic moment when the first giant Hass Avocado made its entrance. Once a scrawny garden tree covered with brown spotted yellowing leaves, nobody knew what kind of tree it was (Matthew 7:20). Gradually, it caught up with the other fruit trees (apple, orange, pomegranate, fig, and more) romanced by bees and butterflies, producing seasonal fruits in abundance while remaining tenaciously rooted under the blue expanse. Last year, the avocado tree withstood a windstorm which toppled outdoor furniture but not a single fruit fell from its branches. This serves as a reminder that if we remain attached to Jesus the Branch, we will be fruitful and God will keep us from falling (Jude 1:24-25).

In the poem, maturity is depicted as branching outward being horizontally inclusive embracing diverse species, and reaching upward being vertically exclusive harnessing one’s God given talents generously blessing the world for His glory.

May the manifold wisdom of God revealed in nature, assure you of His everlasting Love. May simple Faith draw you near to taste of His Grace and Graciousness, Love and Lovingkindness. May you receive eternal life through the Gift of Jesus Christ as unspeakable Joy fills your heart and perfect Peace keeps your mind!
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“O give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” Psalm 136:1 「你 們 要 稱 謝 耶 和 華 ， 因 祂本 為 善 ； 祂的 慈 愛 永 遠 長 存 。」 詩 篇 136:1

“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” 1 Timothy 6:6 「然 而 ， 敬 虔 加 上 知 足 的 心 便 是 大 利 了」提 摩 太 前 書 6:6

“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. “ John 15:4-5 「你 們 要 常 在 我 裡 面 ， 我 也 常 在 你 們 裡 面 。 枝 子 若 不 常 在 葡 萄 樹 上 ， 自 己 就 不 能 結 果 子 ； 你 們 若 不 常 在 我 裡 面 ， 也 是 這 樣 。我 是 葡 萄 樹 ， 你 們 是 枝 子 。 常 在 我 裡 面 的 ， 我 也 常 在 他 裡 面 ， 這 人 就 多 結 果 子 ； 因 為 離 了 我 ， 你 們 就 不 能 做 甚 麼 。」約 翰 福 音15:4-5

“Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death,
To guide our feet into the way of peace.” Luke 1:78-79
「因 我 們 神 憐 憫 的 心 腸 ， 叫 清 晨 的 日 光 從 高 天 臨 到 我 們 ，要 照 亮 坐 在 黑 暗 中 死 蔭 裡 的 人 ， 把 我 們 的 腳 引 到 平 安 的 路 上 。」路 加 福 音1:78-79

Benediction Arising from My Avocado Tree
“Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.” Jude1:24-25
「那 能 保 守 你 們 不 失 腳 、 叫 你 們 無 瑕 無 疵 、 歡 歡 喜 喜 站 在 他 榮 耀 之 前 的 我 們 的 救 主 ─ 獨 一 的 神 ，願 榮 耀 、 威 嚴 、 能 力 、 權 柄 ， 因 我 們 的 主 耶 穌 基 督 歸 與 他 ， 從 萬 古 以 前 並 現 今 ， 直 到 永 永 遠 遠 。 阿 們 。」猶 大 書1:24-25

Happy Mother’s Day! 感恩母亲节！

Proverbs 31 - The Virtuous Wife
Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her; So he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life...She extends her hand to the poor, Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy...Strength and honor are her clothing; she shall rejoice in time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness…Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many daughters have done well, but you excel them all.” Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her own works praise her in the gates.
箴言 31
才 德 的 妇 人 谁 能 得 着 呢 ？她的 价 值 远 胜 过 珍 珠 。她丈 夫 心 里 倚 靠 她， 必 不 缺 少 利 益 ; 她一 生 使 丈 夫 有 益 无 损 。。。她张 手 周 济 困 苦 人 ， 伸 手 帮 补 穷 乏 人 。。。能力 和 威 仪 是 她的 衣 服 ；她想 到 日 後 的 景 况 就 喜 笑 。她开 口 就 发 智 慧 ； 她舌 上 有 仁 慈 的 法 则 。。。她观 察 家 务 ， 并 不 吃 闲饭 。她的 儿 女 起 来 ， 称 她有 福 ； 她的 丈 夫 也 称 赞 她，说：才 德 的 女 子 很 多 ， 惟 独 你 超 过 一 切 。。。艳丽 是 虚 假 的 ， 美 容 是 虚 浮 的 ； 惟 敬 畏 耶 和 华 的 妇 女 必 得 称 赞 。愿她享 受 操 作 所 得 的 ； 愿 她的 工 作 在 城 门 口 荣 耀 她。

Happy Valentine’s ❤️情人节快乐！人日快乐！Sending you a beautiful Scripture in song from 1 John 3:1, “Behold what manner of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God!”

Would that terrestrial valentine could interpose between the manger and the Cross, the celestial message of Bethlehem’s starry night accompanied by angels’ song eclipses all loves. Proclamation of “Glory in the Highest”points to the ultimate love gift of God freely available to anyone who believes Jesus Christ as personal Savior and Lord. John 1:12 says, “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name”.

Of the many kinds of loves, Agape excels all, being God’s everlasting redemptive love for humankind, also manifested as desiring the best for another person. It transcends other human loves between family members (Storge), friends (Phileo), and lovers (Eros). To some, Valentine’s Day evokes sadness from strained relationships, broken promises, oftentimes varying according to changing circumstance in a changing world. The holy image of God marred in a fallen world caused some people to evaluate others like commodities such that love could be overlooked when a suitor uses a scorecard to rate looks/age/wealth/education/health etc., to measure the desirability of a date. For a love that doesn’t fail, turn to Psalm 36:5, “Your unfailing love, O LORD, is as vast as the heavens; your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds”.

Accessibility is available to all when Jesus was born in a manger and not hidden inside an inn, so that even lowly shepherds in the field could verify by sight the birth announcement of the angelic host. The wonderment of the Son of God who came to redeem sinners, Who rose from the grave being first fruits of the dead, continues to seek and save the lost, lifting the spiritually destitute to become a child of God. In Him, a believer is born again, adopted into God’s family, calling Him “Father in Heaven”, an access not even granted to bright angels (Hebrews 1:5). Today, if you hear God’s voice, do not harden your heart (Hebrews 3:15), but like the shepherds, follow the Star and lay hold on His precious promise “that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9). For Agape love that never abandons nor changes, put your trust in Jesus Christ who is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 10:8); for He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 10:5)

One of the most hopeful passages I cherish is a powerful verse from Romans 10:29, “For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.” Ponder how often human contracts are breached and pause to give thanks for Omnipotent keeping His own (Jude 1:24-25) in His perfect love. Above delectable chocolates and roses of all hues, I wish you freedom in Jesus’ fragrance, and joyful everlasting love of God transcending all human loves, transporting you into the presence of glory in the Highest! Happy Valentine’s Day!
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“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. ” John 3:16 「神爱世人，甚至把祂的独生子赐给他们，叫一切信祂的，不至灭亡，反得永生。」约翰福音3:16

Here’s a simple salvation prayer:  https://lp.billygraham.org/find-peace-with-god/

Happy Lunar New Year 2024! 祝大家新年快乐，福杯满溢！「福杯滿溢」（My Cup Overflows）是诗篇23:5充滿信心和力量的一句话，也是大卫经过风霜历练后认上帝为他个人的赐福主。好多人觉得自己的杯总是半满，所以我们必须仰望创造宇宙万能的神，因祂丰盛有余，能满足人心「半空」的渴望。这带我们回到上个月的故事：耶稣是解我们干渴的生命之水。今天，我们翻到马太福音5:3-12，看另一个宝贵的应许也称为八福：

「爱慕公义如饥似渴的人有福了，因为他们必得饱足。
心存怜悯的人有福了，因为他们必蒙上帝的怜悯。」

按照准备过龙历新年的习俗，现在是家家户户大扫除的时候。让我们也借着这个时刻更新自己的心来施行慈善，还清旧债，宽恕过去的错误，辞旧迎新, 成为上帝蒙恩蒙福的子女。

该吃晚饭了，与雨滴落在我橘子树上的节奏同步，送你吉祥的祝福。愿上帝的恩惠慈爱充满你的杯中福，祝你：新年快乐，季水丰收，大吉大利，米桶满满，万事如意，心想事成，阖家平安，福寿双全！

再送你「福」的属灵意思：  https://www.lakeave.org/groups/we-walk/videos/meaning-of-blessing?from=group
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福杯满溢 - 诗篇 23:1-6 (Psalm 23:1-6)
耶和华是我的牧人，我必不会缺乏。他使我躺卧在青草地上，领我到安静的水边。他使我的灵魂苏醒；为了自己的名，他引导我走义路。我虽然行过死荫的山谷，也不怕遭受伤害，因为你与我同在；你的杖你的竿都安慰我。在我敌人面前，你为我摆设筵席；你用油膏了我的头，使我的杯满溢。我一生的日子，必有恩惠慈爱紧随着我；我也要住在耶和华的殿中，直到永远。

以 弗 所 書 1:3-7 (Ephesians 1:3-7)
願 頌 讚 歸 與 我 們 主 耶 穌 基 督 的 父 神 ！ 祂在 基 督 裡 曾 賜 給 我 們 天 上 各 樣 屬 靈 的 福 氣 ：就 如 神 從 創 立 世 界 以 前 ， 在 基 督 裡 揀 選 了 我 們 ， 使 我 們 在 祂面 前 成 為 聖 潔 ， 無 有 瑕 疵 ；又 因 愛 我 們 ， 就 按 著 自 己 意 旨 所 喜 悅 的 ， 預 定 我 們 藉 著 耶 穌 基 督 得 兒 子 的 名 分 ，使 祂榮 耀 的 恩 典 得 著 稱 讚 ； 這 恩 典 是 祂在 愛 子 裡 所 賜 給 我 們 的 。我 們 藉 這 愛 子 的 血 得 蒙 救 贖 ， 過 犯 得 以 赦 免 ， 乃 是 照 祂豐 富 的 恩 典 。

I Will
Scouring through a myriad of New Year Resolutions, some folks in mid-January started calling for a resolution to keep to their Resolutions. Amid widely reported Loneliness Epidemic (NY Times), it is logical to suppose that improving on relationships would top people’s aspirations. So I set up a teatime with our children’s childhood friend, Paddington Bear. To recapture some of his exuberance, optimism, resilience, and childish glee.

Paddington at the Fair
God’s faithfulness always ordered nature in successive seasons, never a Spring skipping a Winter. In the imaginations of human minds, some dwell too long in bleak wintry weather while others race ahead into Summer like today’s Chatty Chair session in January with Paddington on his Carousel adventure at the summer Fair. Startled by his honesty that riding the carousel is a very quick way of spending money travelling to nowhere, I wondered how many resolute human pursuits bear no eternal significance, erased when Time shall be no more.

Showing a page of Charles Spurgeon’s “Morning and Evening” book to compare notes with Paddington’s, it seems that the best thrill is to adventure through God’s Will in one’s life. While many strive to build their “kingdoms” on earth, wrapping one’s heart around objects of worldly desires motivated by pride/vanity/indolence/avarice would further drive a person to work harder, not realizing the futility of chasing after the wind (Ecclesiastes 2:11). Jesus invites us to Rest in Him, Drink from Him who plenteously and freely gives to quench the soul’s thirst, for the All-Sufficient is our Surety. The Masterpiece of all God’s Promises is that God Almighty will be your God, guiding and providing in love and mercy revealed in the beautiful “I Will” chapter of Isaiah 41:
· I will strengthen you. (Isaiah 41:10)
· I will help you. (Isaiah 41:10, 13, and 14)
· I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)
· I will make you into a new threshing sledge with sharp teeth. (Isaiah 41:15)
· I will open rivers in desolate heights. (Isaiah 41:18)
· I will make the wilderness a pool of water. (Isaiah 41:18)
· I will plant in the wilderness the cedar and the acacia tree. (Isaiah 41:19)
· I will set in the desert the cypress tree. (Isaiah 41:19)

Looking on eagerly, Tabby cat politely asked for a piece of Paddington’s shortbread biscuit which he happily shared. Apologizing for forgetting his favorite Marmalade left in the kitchen, I offered tree-fresh oranges for him to take home to make a jar of jam. Just like what our school teachers used to say, we are animated chatterboxes but should this lesson be missing from your textbook, remember that more satisfying than today’s friendly teatime, Jesus invites all who are thirsty to Drink and receive the Water of Life. Anyone can drink; drinking represents a reception for which no fitness is required. May you receive the Bread of Life, drink from the flowing Fountain, rest in God’s immutable Promises, enjoy heaven on earth becoming like Christ in this resolution, “In my flesh I will see God.” Job 19:26. Wishing you a Happy and Healthy New Year in body, mind, and spirit!
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“On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.” John 7:37 「節 期 的 末 日 ， 就 是 最 大 之 日 ， 耶 穌 站 著 高 聲 說 ： 人 若 渴 了 ， 可 以 到 我 這 裡 來 喝 。」約 翰 福 音 7:37

“I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.”Jeremiah 31:33 「我 要 將 我 的 律 法 放 在 他 們 裡 面 ， 寫 在 他 們 心 上 。 我 要 作 他 們 的 神 ， 他 們 要 作 我 的 子 民 。」耶 利 米 書 31:33

“And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, That in my flesh I shall see God.” Job 19:26 「我 這 皮 肉 滅 絕 之 後 ， 我 必 在 肉 體 之 外 得 見 神 。」約 伯 記 19:26

“Worship the LORD with gladness.” Psalm 100:2 「你 們 當 樂 意 事 奉 耶 和 華 ， 當 來 向 他 歌 唱 ！」詩 篇 100:2

Carousel of Doors from Beverly Hills to Pasadena, California 旋转门
“Welcome in!” Once a year, the sparkle of glistening tinsels sheds its magical glow as a series of Christmas invitations swirls me through revolving doors changing from simple charity ones to ornate club doors leading to sumptuous parties of sorts.

Last night was a special Christmas dinner celebrating friendships spanning two decades. Within the storied Jewel in the Crown of Caltech, we were enamored over the passionate life story of the first inventor of electric car using lithium ion battery. More captivating is the inventor’s adherence to the First Two Principles in the Bible when applying complex equations to solving problems benefiting humankind:

Jesus said, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 22:37-40

Momentarily, I sensed the splendor of heaven touching earth, radiating the beauty of Jesus through the testimony of a born again soul embraced by divine Love which came down on Christmas. Like the first Noel when the curtain in the night sky rolled back revealing the glory of heralding angels whose constant presence veiled mortal eyes could not perceive until then. Guided by the Star of Bethlehem, shepherds believing the angelic message had their faith rewarded in being among the first eyes to behold the Christ Child. May Jesus, the Light of the World (John 8:12), illumine your life as you open your heart’s door to welcome in the Lamb of God who came to seek and save one lost sheep.

This Christmas, as we enter and exit a carousel of doors through malls, office parties, and homes, may we find the True Way and wander no more as Sheep and Shepherd are reconciled through Jesus the Door (John 10:7) leading into green pastures. May the Messiah’s gentle invitation, “Come to Me” Matthew 11:28), be your Greatest Gift as you lay aside worldly ambitions and the pressure of tomorrow, coming home to the Shepherd King who gives Peace beyond understanding, Joy overflowing, and Life everlasting. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 圣诞快乐！

Hark! The herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King:
Peace on earth, and Mercy mild,
Sheep and Shepherd reconciled!”

Joyful, all ye nations, rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th'angelic hosts proclaim,
"Christ is born in Bethlehem!"
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Luke 2:1-20
Christ Born of Mary
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Glory in the Highest
Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

“Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.

路 加 福 音 2:1-20
 當 那 些 日 子 ， 該 撒 亞 古 士 督 有 旨 意 下 來 ， 叫 天 下 人 民 都 報 名 上 冊 。這 是 居 里 扭 作 敘 利 亞 巡 撫 的 時 候 ， 頭 一 次 行 報 名 上 冊 的 事 。眾 人 各 歸 各 城 ， 報 名 上 冊 。約 瑟 也 從 加 利 利 的 拿 撒 勒 城 上 猶 太 去 ， 到 了 大 衛 的 城 ， 名 叫 伯 利 恆 ， 因 他 本 是 大 衛 一 族 一 家 的 人 ，要 和 他 所 聘 之 妻 馬 利 亞 一 同 報 名 上 冊 。 那 時 馬 利 亞 的 身 孕 已 經 重 了 。他 們 在 那 裡 的 時 候 ， 馬 利 亞 的 產 期 到 了 ，就 生 了 頭 胎 的 兒 子 ， 用 布 包 起 來 ， 放 在 馬 槽 裡 ， 因 為 客 店 裡 沒 有 地 方 。在 伯 利 恆 之 野 地 裡 有 牧 羊 的 人 ， 夜 間 按 著 更 次 看 守 羊 群 。有 主 的 使 者 站 在 他 們 旁 邊 ， 主 的 榮 光 四 面 照 著 他 們 ； 牧 羊 的 人 就 甚 懼 怕 。那 天 使 對 他 們 說 ： 不 要 懼 怕 ！ 我 報 給 你 們 大 喜 的 信 息 ， 是 關 乎 萬 民 的 ；因 今 天 在 大 衛 的 城 裡 ， 為 你 們 生 了 救 主 ， 就 是 主 基 督 。你 們 要 看 見 一 個 嬰 孩 ， 包 著 布 ， 臥 在 馬 槽 裡 ， 那 就 是 記 號 了 。忽 然 ， 有 一 大 隊 天 兵 同 那 天 使 讚 美 神 說 ：
在 至 高 之 處 榮 耀 歸 與 神 ！ 在 地 上 平 安 歸 與 他 所 喜 悅 的 人 ！眾 天 使 離 開 他 們 ， 升 天 去 了 。 牧 羊 的 人 彼 此 說 ： 我 們 往 伯 利 恆 去 ， 看 看 所 成 的 事 ， 就 是 主 所 指 示 我 們 的 。他 們 急 忙 去 了 ， 就 尋 見 馬 利 亞 和 約 瑟 ， 又 有 那 嬰 孩 臥 在 馬 槽 裡 ；既 然 看 見 ， 就 把 天 使 論 這 孩 子 的 話 傳 開 了 。凡 聽 見 的 ， 就 詫 異 牧 羊 之 人 對 他 們 所 說 的 話 。馬 利 亞 卻 把 這 一 切 的 事 存 在 心 裡 ， 反 復 思 想 。牧 羊 的 人 回 去 了 ， 因 所 聽 見 所 看 見 的 一 切 事 ， 正 如 天 使 向 他 們 所 說 的 ， 就 歸 榮 耀 與 神 ， 讚 美 他 。

Thanksgiving Spotlight: Advice from a Pomegranate Tree
“Thank You for your friendship!”. Irresistibly juicy Royal Riveria pears are now in season, tantalizing the palate with intensely sweet and buttery soft textures. Perfected with delicate finishing touches, hand wrapped pears tucked into beautiful wooden crates freshly delivered to doorsteps prompted a flood of appreciation notes popping up on my computer screen. The sound of Thanksgiving is in the air.

Sight - Natural Ornaments
Bringing the outdoors into my study, large window panes framed trellised grapes situated next to shrubs of pomegranates, conjuring images of decorative ornaments on Christmas trees. Displaying red globes contrasting against bright yellow leaves perched on sculpturally twisted trunks, the pomegranate tree adds visual interest to any garden landscape. The sight of Thanksgiving is in the air.

Smell - Life Giving Nature
Marvels in nature brought forth respectful awe as I witness trees on the mountain yielding cyclical bounties by rotation, teaching sustainability lessons that human friendships are best maintained through reciprocal rotation, like creation’s ecosystem of giving and receiving. Warming my fingers around a cup of comforting hot apple cider with cinnamon concocted from last month’s apple harvest, a gratitude song escaped my lips for the generous circle of life embracing humankind. The scent of Thanksgiving fills the air.

Surpassing Gift
Browsing festive catalogs of year-end Gifting received yesterday, tempting goods and services ranging from sparkling baubles, exquisite treasure island experiences, jetting around the world savoring culinary fares, once-in-a-lifetime appearance on the Opera stage, to a million dollars curated futuristic vehicle, promise to bring holiday cheer. You know your heart is satisfied, when wandering eyes could not stir a wondering heart immersed in the beauty among God’s nature. When woodlands communion turns into a sanctuary teeming with floral and fauna dressed better than Solomon’s magnificence, one’s soul is awakened to the surpassing gift of gazing on the glory of Jesus, while all other worldly attractions pale in comparison.

Taste - Highest Order
Faith is said to be the highest order of human senses represented by taste. Psalm 34:8 says, “O taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the person who trusts in Him!”. Casting a spotlight on the pomegranate ripening in the backyard, I thought to share a special way of appropriating this fruit of heaven. After numerous comical episodes dodging bursting red juices when laying a knife on a pomegranate, I tried a kinder method which a friend who owned tropical plantations once taught me…how to eat a mangosteen like the locals. Without using a knife, hold a pomegranate upside down between your palms, apply firm pressure until a fissure opens across the fruit through the bottom dot, revealing hundreds of glistening ruby red jewels. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, the pomegranate juice promotes health and beauty besides embodying symbolisms of purity and fertility lauded in holy books, borne on ancient coins, and universally crowning the songs of lovers.

Advice from a Pomegranate Tree
Sending you Happy Thanksgiving wishes in the attached photos. Innumerable lessons from cultivating a pomegranate tree can be applied to nurturing human relationships. Instead of expecting others to fulfill one’s wish or to complete one’s inadequacy, aspire to experience the meaning of “it is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35) by hosting free gatherings inviting strangers. Surrender to God as channels of His boundless grace to build a better world. Like the showy vibrant orange trumpet blooms during flowering season, be bold in revitalizing one’s surroundings, ready to be transformed into a mature red fruit while retaining its coronet. Effortlessly rest thereafter without worrying as the total shedding of leaves in Winter is necessary for a new cycle to begin next Spring. Inevitably, there are times when during the growing phase, a toxic relationship needs to be severed like pruning a plant, but staying resilient would ultimately yield a healthier harvest. Sharing Advice from my Pomegranate Tree:
Be well-rounded
Celebrate colorfully and rest quietly
Drink deeply from the earth
Enjoy your natural beauty
Give generously to nourish others

May the manifold wisdom of God revealed in nature assure you of His everlasting Love. May simple Faith draw you near to taste of His goodness. Surpassing any earthly longevity elixirs of this world, may you receive eternal life through the Gift of Jesus Christ as unspeakable Joy fills your heart and perfect Peace keeps your mind!
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“O give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” Psalm 136:1 「你 們 要 稱 謝 耶 和 華 ， 因 祂本 為 善 ； 祂的 慈 愛 永 遠 長 存 。」 詩 篇 136:1

“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” 1 Timothy 6:6 「然 而 ， 敬 虔 加 上 知 足 的 心 便 是 大 利 了」提 摩 太 前 書 6:6

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” 2 Corinthians 9:15 「 感 謝 神 ， 因 祂有 說 不 盡 的 恩 賜 ！」。歌 林 多 後 書 9:15，

”For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. ” John 3:16 「神爱世人，甚至把祂的独生子赐给他们，叫一切信祂的，不至灭亡，反得永生。」约翰福音3:16

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23 「因 為 罪 的 工 價 乃 是 死 ； 惟 有 神 的 恩 賜 ， 在 我 們 的 主 基 督 耶 穌 裡 ， 乃 是 永 生 。」羅 馬 書 6:23，

“And upon its hem you shall make pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet, all around its hem, and bells of gold between them all around: a golden bell and a pomegranate, a golden bell and a pomegranate, upon the hem of the robe all around. “ Exodus 28:33-34 「袍 子 周 圍 底 邊 上 要 用 藍 色 、 紫 色 、 朱 紅 色 線 做 石 榴 。 在 袍 子 周 圍 的 石 榴 中 間 要 有 金 鈴 鐺 ：一 個 金 鈴 鐺 一 個 石 榴 ， 一 個 金 鈴 鐺 一 個 石 榴 ， 在 袍 子 周 圍 的 底 邊 上 。」出 埃 及 記 28:33-34

“Then they came to the Valley of Eshcol, and there cut down a branch with one cluster of grapes; they carried it between two of them on a pole. They also brought some of the pomegranates and figs.” Numbers 13:23 「 他 們 到 了 以 實 各 谷 ， 從 那 裡 砍 了 葡 萄 樹 的 一 枝 ， 上 頭 有 一 掛 葡 萄 ， 兩 個 人 用 杠 抬 著 ， 又 帶 了 些 石 榴 和 無 花 果 來 。」民 數 記 13:23

Enchanting California Wildlife Encounter under Full Moon
Our gaze locked as time stood still, a serenity like eternity. Mutually enchanted with a mysterious familiarity, our eyes gleamed under a row of moonlit evergreen trees. A deer adorned with majestic antlers gently checked me out while I was taking out the trash last night. Approaching him speaking softly, the resonance of a tender voice broke the silence on the mountain like a queen of the forest; forgetting that I was donned in a leopard print robe…a creature stranger to the deer than his sudden appearance was to me. Regally, the buck’s silhouette trotted into the cover of darkness among my rose orchard where he loves to dine with his doe.

Singing “O give me a home, where the deer does roam”, what some poets may term “Rose Thief” is in my vocabulary, a four-legged gardener helping prune rose bushes. Often consoling myself over the disappearance of blooms needed to fill a vase when entertaining friends, I marveled at how the white spotted deer resembles the beauty of white rose petals it freely consumes copiously. Yes, wildlife do not recognize property rights, terms of endearment within shared space make them a delight to behold, nature’s ecosystem educating all on harmonious living for a flourishing world.

Mid-Autumn Festival + Formula 1
Illuminating the night sky outshining all solar pathway lanterns, the harvest moon witnesses beyond chance encounters, thousands of joyous planned reunions across the globe. Celebrated as the second most important festival among Asian communities feasting on autumn fruits, bountiful produce, and mooncakes symbolizing wholeness and family reunion, September’s Mid-Autumn Festival at Gardens by the Bay in Singapore tops with creative storytelling elevating the experiences of F1 enthusiasts from around the world spending extended vacation in one of the priciest cities on earth curating some of the most unforgettable memories!

Priceless Eternal Reunion
There is a reunion of people called out from all nations, planned by our Heavenly Father who created the moon, stars, sun, and humans in His image. The image of God in humans marred by sin causes eternal separation more painful than the temporal separation of friends and lovers looking to the full moon for solace. The price of salvation has been paid in full by Jesus, who died for our sins on the Cross, and rose again that we might live holy lives. To receive the free gift of salvation for new life in Christ, see   https://peacewithgod.net/steps for steps to Peace with God.

Far superior to being on the “safe list” in the above majestic deer encounter, may you be found in the glorious “Saved List” in the Lamb’s Book of Life blessed with a priceless eternal reunion with God, Who rejoices to do you good as the Bridegroom rejoices over His Bride (Jeremiah 32:41). 愿今年2023的中秋，大家能在主内像被蒙慈 爱 的 儿 女 联想基督的盼望。祝你蒙恩蒙福，与上帝永恒团圆，中秋节快乐！Wishing you a joyous Happy Mid-Autumn Festival 2023!
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“Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6 「耶 穌 說 我 就 是 道 路 、 真 理 、 生 命 ； 若 不 藉 著 我 ， 沒 有 人 能 到 父 那 裡 去 。」約 翰 福 音14:6

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
「 神 愛 世 人 ， 甚 至 將 他 的 獨 生 子 賜 給 他 們 ， 叫 一 切 信 他 的 ， 不 至 滅 亡 ， 反 得 永 生 。」約 翰 福 音 3:16

“…the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 「聖 靈 所 結 的 果 子 ， 就 是 仁 愛 、 喜 樂 、 和 平 、 忍 耐 、 恩 慈 、 良 善 、 信 實 、溫 柔 、 節 制 。 這 樣 的 事 沒 有 律 法 禁 止 。」加 拉 太 書 5:22-23

“…I will rejoice over them to do them good, and I will assuredly plant them in this land, with all My heart and with all My soul.” Jeremiah 32:41 「我 必 欢 喜 施 恩 与 他 们 ， 要 尽 心 尽 意 、 诚 诚 实 实 将 他 们 栽 於 此 地 。」耶 利 米 書 32:41

“Practice Hospitality” Romans 12:13 “客 要 一 味 的 款 待 “ 羅 馬 書12:13
Captivated by a surprise graceful beauty fanning bright orange wings laced with black stripes, I whispered a prayer for the rare monarch butterfly whose company I missed today…for a good reason. Today is a special Rest day as the pitter-patter of raindrops played a soothing lullaby. Times of refreshing, augmented by rounds of water music permeating the mountain community, restore and rejuvenate creatures and creation inhabiting this lush California habitat since time immemorial.

Sipping fragrant floral tea received from a cherished friend, I wondered what stories filled the monarch butterfly’s pilgrimage as happiness welled in my heart for this cultivated garden being its chosen destination. Folklore has it that a monarch butterfly symbolizes transformation, renewal, spiritual growth, or a new beginning. Yet not a secret sojourn, for a kaleidoscope of butterflies had been performing their flower dances with birds and bees, seemingly to render gratitude for the hospitality they enjoy.

Hospitality Begins in the Garden
The Greek word for hospitality is “philoxenia”, which translates, “love of strangers.” Hospitality is not an extension of wealth, it is an extension of self. It involves giving one’s time, resources, labor, and heart, creating positive impact without expecting anything in return. In its highest form, it is Agape love in action (Matthew 11:9, Hebrews 13: 1-2). Interestingly, cultivating one’s heart garden emanates love towards nature and humanity alike. Seasonal fruits encircling the songs of birds enhance friendships enabling the spirit of benevolence to extend her hand of fellowship from August’s gleaning post to September and beyond!

Crowning the fellowship with friends over chatter and laughter browsing fruit orchards, an ever present Friend is there to commune with anyone whose mind and heart lifts heavenward. Speaking words of comfort, peace, and joy, God the Creator reveals His faithful love for humankind through the manifold wonders of His handiwork. However, when one chooses self-autonomy over God’s ways, sin separates from the Creator. The way back to God is to accept Jesus Christ as personal Savior and Lord because He is the Way through the Door into green pastures, the Light of the Truth, and the Water of Life.

Unending Hospitality
Autumn Weddings tinged with golden harvests at their peak serve up the best sumptuous banquets. There is a Marriage Supper of the Lamb far excelling human imagination, prepared by God the Father for those who by faith receive Christ as their Redeemer. As many as have been the spiritual invitations shared over inspirationally beautiful posts, have you responded by entering into mutual possession declared in Song of Solomon 2:16, “My beloved is mine, and I am His”? See  https://peacewithgod.net/steps/ for steps to Peace with God. May the below melody of love ring in your heart so crystal clear, that the songs of birds and hum of raindrops would hush in awe of such matchless relationship, that God on high would love frail humans, elevating us to co-heirs with Jesus Christ Our Righteousness! May gentleness, kindness, goodness, sweetness, free generosity, the grace of Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, dwell in your heart! God Loves You!

Hymn “In the Image of God”
In the image of God we were made long ago,
With a purpose divine, here His glory to show
But we failed Him one day, and like sheep went astray
Thinking not of the cost, we His likeness had lost.

But from eternity God had in mind
The Cross of Calvary the lost to find
From His Heaven so broad, Christ came down earth to trod
So that we might live again in the image of God.

Now that I have believed and the Saviour received
Now that I from the cry of my guilt am relieved
I will live for my Lord, not for gain or reward
But for love, thinking of what His grace has restored.

Such a Saviour I’ll praise, to the end of my days, as I upward onward trod, in the image of God.
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1 John 4:8 “God is Love” 約翰一書 4:8 ”神就是愛”

Leviticus 19:34 - "The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the LORD your God." 利未記 19:34 “和 你 們 同 居 的 外 人 、 你 們 要 看 他 如 本 地 人 一 樣 、 並 要 愛 他 如 己 、 因 為 你 們 在 埃 及 地 也 作 過 寄 居 的 ． 我 是 耶 和 華 你 們 的 　 神”

Hebrews 13:2 - "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." 希 伯 來 書 13:2 “不可 忘 記 用 愛 心 接 待 客 旅 ； 因 為 曾 有 接 待 客 旅 的 ， 不 知 不 覺 就 接 待 了 天 使 。”

John 14:6 - Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”約 翰 福 音14:6 - 「耶 穌 說 我 就 是 道 路 、 真 理 、 生 命 ； 若 不 藉 著 我 ， 沒 有 人 能 到 父 那 裡 去 。」

John 11:25 - Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die”. 約 翰 福 音11:25 - 「耶 穌 對 他 說 ： 復 活 在 我 ， 生 命 也 在 我 。 信 我 的 人 雖 然 死 了 ， 也 必 復 活 」

Romans 10:9 - ”If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” 罗马书 - 「你若口里认耶稣为主，心里信神使他从死人中复活，就必得救。」

Song of Solomon 2 :16 - “My beloved is mine, and I am His” 雅歌2:16 - 「我的良人属我，我也属他」